8 Closet Essentials For Chic City Style This Winter
On cold, dark mornings, there’s nothing quite like embracing fashion’s power to lift your spirits. From blissfully soft wardrobe foundations to trending finishing touches, these eight seasonal staples will make light work of winter dressing, says COLLEEN ROSS
An oversized coat
When it comes to forever buys, a winter coat is often the biggest. Trust us: something flawlessly tailored in an oversized shape and long in length is the answer. Keep things cool, classic and refined with Toteme’s aptly named ‘Shield’ design – the double-breasted front and neat collar will add polish to any outfit – or Stella McCartney’s belted army-green style, which was first seen on the fall ’25 runway and is part of our NET SUSTAIN edit. Elsewhere, fans of warm-toned neutrals will love the biscuit hue of Róhe’s wool and cashmere-blend ‘Leandra’ coat – a NET-A-PORTER exclusive. As always, the timeless shade pairs effortlessly with blue jeans, but it also looks chic with dark tailored pants.
A suede bag
If you’re looking for a new-season investment bag, there’s really only one material to consider – and that’s suede. Not only does it look and feel beautiful, but it adds texture and depth to outfits, elevating everything from knitwear to denim. Alaïa’s prized ‘Le Teckel’ bag is reworked this season in burgundy leather and suede, while Savette’s timeless ‘Symmetry’ style comes in an elegant trapeze shape. Perfect whether you’re traveling or commuting, Saint Laurent’s ‘Le 5 À 7 Bea’ tote is the epitome of pared-back luxury and a sophisticated choice for the office.
A maxi skirt
Even in the face of blustery weather, the street-style set is remaining loyal to maxi skirts, from A-line to figure-skimming. Both styles are just the thing to wear with sweaters or fitted jersey staples, and pencil skirts, such as Khaite’s navy leather ‘Loxley’ design and Wardrobe.NYC’s denim style, are dominating social feeds. Over on the romantic end of the spectrum, Chloé’s runway style comes in certified organic silk-mousseline and has a flouncy hem. Wear yours to dinner with a button-down cardigan and heeled knee-high boots.
Knee-high boots
Boots are essential for any cold-weather wardrobe, and this season, animal-print styles specifically are reigning supreme. Exclusive to NET-A-PORTER, Jimmy Choo’s ‘Maxima’ pair are crafted from snake-effect leather and rest on kitten heels, while Manolo Blahnik’s ‘Penelope’ boots have a mock-croc finish – both are perfect for every day. Alternatively, for something with after-dark appeal, look to Saint Laurent’s ‘Jill’ style in glossy burgundy leather. Pull on yours with a split-hem denim skirt, or a mini skirt and sheer tights.
Straight-leg jeans
When it comes to finding your go-to denim, you can’t go wrong with straight-leg jeans in tried-and-tested washes. Agolde’s ‘Harper’ jeans are cut from rigid indigo denim, while Frame’s ‘The Vertical’ pair come in a faded blue finish. Set to be a bestseller, Citizens of Humanity’s ‘Blaine’ pair have a vintage black wash that’s easy to dress up or down. What’s more, all three pairs are standouts from our NET SUSTAIN edit, as they are crafted using lower-impact materials. Remember, every wash cycle affects the fit and feel of denim – that’s why aficionados (and sustainability experts) swear by freezing their jeans between laundry days.
A classic turtleneck
The late Diane Keaton was the ultimate poster girl for this knitwear staple, both on screen and in real life, once revealing to fans that she “forever and always will be a turtleneck kind of gal.” Taking the icon’s fashion legacy as proof, it’s an easy mindset to back. Plain, striped, colorful… there’s no hard-and-fast rule this sweater season, except that materials matter. Another NET SUSTAIN highlight, Allude’s sweater is spun from a blend of wool and cashmere for warmth and softness, while The Elder Statesman’s red turtleneck is knitted using fine cashmere fibers and has a relaxed fit. Style yours beneath a chic blazer.
A winter dress
A knitted dress will slot right into any capsule closet. The best part? They’re so easy to style. Proenza Schouler’s ‘Jada’ dress has been crafted from springy ribbed-knit wool in classic black that’s great for the office and will go with all your favorite accessories. Elsewhere, Lanvin’s poppy-red style has open-knit panels and a fluted hem, making it a gorgeous choice for evening. Alternatively, Tove’s ‘Sorrel’ maxi is knitted from smooth jersey that’s gathered through the bodice and hips, and looks equally chic styled with knee-high boots or elegant pumps.
Essential winter accessories
Come winter, the finishing touches are non-negotiable – as well as adding color and texture to a look, they are crucial for braving the elements. We love practical yet pretty scarves, which instantly lift a wintry color palette. Loewe’s silk and cashmere-blend style, for example, is patterned with pastel-toned checks and the brand’s logo. A cashmere beanie, such as Arch4’s snug ‘Clara’ style, is another sensible choice. Finally, for a little evening glamour, Khaite’s butter-soft leather ‘Remo’ gloves are ultra-sophisticated and feel like an indulgent treat for cold hands.
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